Credentialed Interpreter Designation

The ATA Directory of Translators and Interpreters includes Credentialed Interpreter (CI) designations in three areas of interpreting: conference, healthcare and legal.

Stop now and listen to Episode 10 of The ATA Podcast to learn all you need to know about the Credentialed Interpreter designation in the ATA Directory of Translators and Interpreters.

What are the requirements for the CI designation?

Interpreting proficiency must be demonstrated by:

Passing an oral exam that tests performance skills in two or more modes of interpreting, with published assessment instruments, research methods, development and validation procedures, eligibility requirements, and administration (e.g., availability and location, fees, reporting of results);1 or

In the case of conference interpreting, exacting peer review or testing through one of the organizations approved for the CI designation.

And the credential must have been granted by a:

Government agency, or

Non-profit professional association, or

Non-profit certification board or governing committee that includes individuals from the certified population, as well as voting representation from at least one consumer or public member. For entities offering more than one certification program, a system must be in place through which all certified populations are represented, with voting rights, on the certification board or governing committee.2

Interpreting credentials that meet the CI designation requirements

CI-Conference

AIIC

European Union

National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters

TAALS

United Nations

U.S. Department of State-Conference

U.S. Department of State-Seminar

CI-Healthcare

California Administrative Hearing Interpreter Certification

California Medical Certification

CHI-Certification Commission for Health Care Interpreters

CMI-National Board for Interpreter Certification

National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters

WA DSHS-Medical

CI-Legal

California Administrative Hearing Interpreter Certification

Federal Court Interpreter Certification

NAJIT Certified Interpreter

National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters

State Court Interpreter Certification (with a score of 70% or better in all three modes of interpreting)

Ontario Ministry of the Attorney General

What credentials may not be used to qualify for a CI designation?

Credentials designed or used by private or non-profit language services providers for the purpose of vetting interpreters they employ or contract.

Certificates, certifications, or other credentials that were obtained without passing an oral interpreting exam.

What if I have a credential that is not listed above?

If you hold a credential that is not listed above but meets the necessary criteria, please let ATA Headquarters know. The credential will be reviewed for possible inclusion.

Add your CI designation to the Directory

How do I request a CI designation in the ATA Directory?
Complete the online CI designation request form, attach copies of supporting documentation, and click to submit. Attachments may be in PDF, JPG, or Word format. The review process may take up to 45 days.

Is there a cost associated with the CI designation?
Yes, there is an administrative fee of $35. The fee covers all requests for one year.

Can I have more than one CI designation?
Yes, however you must complete a separate request form for each credential.

Are there any responsibilities associated with a CI designation in the ATA Directory?
Yes. You must maintain the credential which is the basis for the CI designation. Failure to do so will result in the loss of the CI designation and possible action by the ATA Ethics Committee.

1 Suggested evidence to document that the Standard has been met may include a candidate handbook, brochures about the certification program, and other public documents. See National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCAA), Standards for the Accreditation of
Certification Programs, 2010. Standard 7.